Managing contractor for the project, Laing O'Rourke, has met with Assistant Minister for Defence David Fawcett and federal member for Capricornia Michelle Landry, as well as local engineering and design businesses working to deliver "key aspects" of the SWBTA expansion, which is anticipated to bring up to $4 million to the local economy.

“Defence is committed to providing economic benefits and opportunities for local industry across the life of the ASMTI,” Senator Fawcett said.

“Laing O’Rourke was announced as the managing contractor for the expansion of the SWBTA in September 2018, and has made great progress in engaging local industry, which is great news for businesses throughout the region.

“Laing O’Rourke was also fostering a partnership with Central Queensland University to provide sustainable career pathways for the region.

“The Singapore government’s investment of around $2 billion in purchasing land and developing and enhancing the training areas in central and north Queensland will meet the future needs of the Australian Defence Force and an increased presence of Singapore Armed Forces personnel.”

Senator Fawcett also confirmed more industry engagements would come in the following months.

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“Laing O’Rourke’s Local Industry Capability Plan and commitment to targeting work from the central Queensland region means local industry can make the most of these opportunities, leading to more local investment and industry support as the initiative progresses,” he said.

“This partnership will see Laing O’Rourke hosting industry placements, recruiting graduates and developing an ASMTI training hub to give students and apprentices access to work with local sub-contractors.” 

Upon maturation of the ASMTI, up to 14,000 Singapore Armed Forces personnel will conduct training in central and north Queensland over 18 weeks a year for 25 years.